GEELONG small forward Lincoln McCarthy has informed the Cats of his desire to be traded to Brisbane.
McCarthy, 24, communicated his wish to the Cats hierarchy on Friday, knocking back an offer to continue his career at GMHBA Stadium in pursuit of a fresh start at the Lions.
AFL.com.au understands McCarthy is hopeful of playing alongside close friend and junior teammate Lachie Neale next season, with the Docker contemplating a multi-million dollar move.
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Having met with Lions coach Chris Fagan last week, McCarthy is believed to have been sold by the club's fitness staff as he attempts to overcome a frustrating two seasons with injury.
Limited to two senior games this season following three in 2017, McCarthy returned to play the final three matches of the VFL season.
Speaking after losing a semi-final to Box Hill, McCarthy revealed his interests in a fresh start.
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"After a few years of not being able to do what you want to do in a specific environment, you can get a little bit burnt out," McCarthy said.
"That comes with any role, in any job I think.
"It's only natural to review what's going on in your own sense.
"It's only natural that I'm weighing up what I do."
McCarthy was drafted to Geelong from Glenelg in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft, having played alongside Neale in the SANFL system.
Playing one game in 2012, he missed the entire 2013 season following foot surgery before he was restricted to four games in 2014 with a persistent back injury.
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A further foot setback surfaced in 2015 before a breakout season in 2016 with 19 games was offset by groin and hip concerns in 2017 for much of the year.
His two senior games this year took him to 29 games in seven seasons at the Cats.
Coach Chris Scott has long been a fan of McCarthy's capabilities in attack and even considered rolling the dice on him for his side's elimination final loss to Melbourne.
